Russian Barrage Batters Ukraine’s Energy System During Peace Talks

Overview

• Ukraine reported 21 missiles and roughly 375–400 drones were launched in the latest coordinated strike targeting power and critical infrastructure.
• About 1.2 million properties lost electricity during an extreme cold wave, with Kyiv reporting one person killed and 31 injured and Kharkiv seeing damage to homes, a shelter and a maternity facility.
• Kyiv authorities said heating has been restored to more than 1,600 buildings, yet roughly 1,700 remain without heat as repair work continues.
• U.S., Ukrainian and Russian delegations described discussions as constructive and scheduled another round next Sunday, but Russia’s territorial demand for Donbass remains the key obstacle.
• Public data cited by the Financial Times show Ukraine’s interception rates have fallen sharply, compounding humanitarian strain and prompting expanded heated shelters and NGO support in the Kyiv region.